As a dentist, one of the most common questions I hear from parents is: “Should we begin treatment now, or should we wait until all the permanent teeth come in?”The answer depends on the type of jaw imbalance, the child’s stage of growth, the severity of the bite, and what we are trying to accomplish.…

Most people think of gum disease as a problem that only affects the mouth. However, growing research suggests that periodontal disease and heart disease may be connected through inflammation, bacteria, and shared risk factors.Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that damages the gums and bone supporting the teeth. It can cause bleeding gums, persistent…

Parents often think of a deep bite as mainly a dental or cosmetic concern. However, the way a child’s upper and lower jaws grow can also influence chewing, facial development, tongue space, and, in some children, the size and stability of the upper airway.A deep bite does not automatically mean that a child has obstructive…

Thumb sucking is a natural self-soothing habit for babies and young children. Many children stop on their own between ages 2 and 4 without long-term dental problems.However, when thumb sucking continues beyond the preschool years, it can affect how the teeth, jaws, facial muscles, and bite develop. In some children, prolonged thumb sucking can contribute…

Missing teeth can affect much more than your smile. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area no longer receives the same stimulation from chewing. Over time, this can cause the bone to shrink, a process known as bone resorption.As bone support and bite support begin to deteriorate, the face may slowly start…